Michael S. Smith's NYC Penthouse

The Obamas' White House decorator and author of the stunning book Elements of Style Michael S. Smith has finally put down permanent roots in New York and invited Elle Decor to take a look at his new home, which you can find in the issue on newsstands now.

In the accompanying article, we learn that the design of the apartment was thrown together with things Smith already owns, and that he plans on doing a lot of updating in the future. Not bad for just starting out. The eclectic mix of antiques with bright open spaces is exactly what the designer intended, his former NYC digs having lacked enough natural light for his liking. While the space continues to change, the vintage charm of the two-story penthouse will be preserved by leaving the original bathroom fixtures, mantles, and even certain wall treatments in tact, as Smith admires the high-society roots of the previous owners and the lifestyle they enjoyed in the home for many years.

It is always interesting to see what respected decorators choose for their personal projects. Do you think this spread lives up to Michael S. Smith's previous work?